Bournemouth will complete the signing of Aston Villa midfielder Stephen Cooke on a two-year deal when his contract with the Premiership outfit expires on July 1.

The 22-year-old play-maker has failed to break into David O'Leary's first-team plans, but he has enjoyed two loan spells at the Cherries. He played seven games in March 2002 and then returned for another month-long stint last January with the League One side.

Cherries boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "Stephen is someone we've had come here before and he's done very well with us.

"He's a skilful player, well liked by the fans, he's kept in touch with a couple of the players and knows the way we like to play the game."